Fred D. Mayer

Fred "Duke" Duane Mayer of Homewood passed away on August 4, 2022, after a long battle with cancer.  He was born to the late Fred and Pauline (Ashby) Mayer on June 18, 1935. Fred was preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Arlene Mayer who passed away December 18, 2021. He is survived by his only child Dr. David D. Mayer DDS (Rose) and his three granddaughters Rachel (Michael) Matasar, Michelle Mayer and Carly Mayer.

Duke grew up in Midlothian, IL and he graduated from Blue Island High School in 1953. Fred "Duke" served in the Army from 1953-1955. Duke and Arlene were longtime residents of Homewood and Chicago Heights. Duke was employed at R.R. Donnelley and Sons for nearly his entire career as an accountant in HR.

Duke began a longtime passion for tennis around 1970. He played well into his 70's. He was an original member at the Homewood-Flossmoor Racquet Club in 1972 and retained his membership for 50 years. He spent many hours here playing tennis, working out, drinking coffee and chatting with friends. He also really enjoyed playing golf. He loved tinkering with his swing and telling his family every time he saw them that he had "found the secret!"

He had a love for gardening as well and was awarded the Homewood Beautification Award several times. Duke was born near Comiskey Park and was a lifelong White Sox fan. He often said, "when the Sox win and the Cubs lose it is like winning a double header!" He also lived and died every Sunday watching his beloved Bears.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Restoration Ministries ( restorationministries.net ) in Fred Mayer's name. They are a local organization that provides life changing programs to recovering addicts, at risk youth, and families in need.

A memorial visitation and service will be held on Thursday August 11, 2022, from 3 pm until the time of the service at 7pm at the Tews Ryan Funeral Home 18230 S. Dixie Hwy Homewood IL 60430. For additional information contact tews-ryanfh.com or call 708-798-5300.